C-One Ventures Platform (C-One) has announced its intention to acquire the licences, technology, and select assets of Bankly Microfinance Bank, marking a significant step toward restoring stability and accelerating financial inclusion across Nigeria’s informal economy.
The deal, which is still subject to regulatory approvals from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and other authorities, underscores C-One’s strategic commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s financial services sector. The transaction aims to protect customer interests, stabilize Bankly’s operations, and integrate its services into C-One’s broader digital financial ecosystem.
A C-One representative emphasized the company’s vision of making financial services accessible, affordable, and simple for underserved communities.
“Bringing Bankly into our ecosystem allows us to combine its community-driven network with our robust digital infrastructure to expand access to finance and enable real economic participation,” the spokesperson said.
Once finalized, the acquisition will prioritize immediate resolution of customer obligations, operational stabilization, and the seamless integration of Bankly’s proprietary technology. The deal includes a modest cash consideration, reflecting C-One’s focus on long-term, sustainable growth rather than short-term gain.
Bankly, founded in 2018, has played a pivotal role in advancing financial inclusion in Nigeria by offering innovative savings, payments, and credit services. However, in recent months, the microfinance bank faced significant liquidity challenges and operational disruptions, leading to customer dissatisfaction due to withdrawal delays and reduced service availability.
Speaking on the acquisition, Bankly Co-founder Tomilola Majekodunmi expressed optimism for the company’s future under C-One’s leadership.
“We are proud of the impact we’ve made serving Nigeria’s unbanked population. With C-One’s backing, we’re confident that Bankly’s mission will be revitalized, and its reach expanded to even more communities,” Majekodunmi stated. She will continue to serve in an advisory role to ensure continuity and long-term success.
C-One Ventures is a venture studio focused on acquiring and scaling technology-driven solutions that address key developmental needs across Africa. Its growing portfolio spans education, healthcare, commerce, and financial services—all aimed at promoting inclusive economic growth and delivering value to underserved populations.
With the integration of Bankly into its financial services network, C-One is poised to strengthen its presence in grassroots banking, reinforce customer trust, and drive transformative change in Nigeria’s informal financial sector.